Newton, Iowa

This week, I will be traveling to Newton, Iowa for the inductions at the International Wrestling Institute and Museum. It will be my honor to be able to sit in and accept for the Miller family for Dr. "Big Bill" Miller, who is being honored posthumously. Bill's son David will be unable to attend and has asked me to do the honors for him.

I will be also at a live event on Friday the 15th at the Newton High School, where a number of us "Legends" will be in attendance. Scheduled to appear are Harley Race, Bob Geigel, Verne Gagne, Brad Rheingans, Gene Kiniski, Mad Dog Vachon, Baron Von Raschke, Danny Hodge, Paul Orndorff, Larry Hennig, Tom Drake and a few more surprise guests.

Headlining that card will be Rick Steiner against Trevor Rhodes, the current WLW Champion. Plus, there will be five more great bouts on the card, which starts at 7 p.m. The Museum can be contacted for ticket information, 641-791-1517 during regular hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Newton brings back many great memories for me during the previous years I was in attendance. Lou Thesz will be most remembered for his huge smile and firm handshake. He was always at the front door, greeting fans and friends alike. Some of his personal effects are enshrined at the museum for future generations to view that will come to visit.

Another great that I will miss is Tim Woods. His smile and handshake were something like Lou's but different. Tim always had time for fans and totally enjoyed himself wherever he went. His passion for the Three Stooges was the same as mine; he admired my Stooges tie after the banquet, and I was so impressed that I told his wife Tyger to give it to him.

I look forward to seeing all my friends at the museum like Joyce Paustian, Scott McLin, Scott Casber, Chief Paul Farber, Red Bastien, Karl Lauer, Tom Drake and many more.

I hope to see everyone at ringside both on Friday night at the matches and Saturday morning at the museum.

Percival A. Friend, Retired
The Epitome of Wrestling Managers
2004 CAC Honoree